COLLECTION

COLLECTION

Distribution of Natural Resources

Distribution of Natural Resources

Different regions have access to different renewable or nonrenewable natural resources such as freshwater, fossil fuels, fertile soil, or timber based on their geographic location and past geologic processes. Access, or the lack thereof, contributes to a place’s economic development, political relationships, and culture. For example, the Great Plains region of the United States is known for its abundance of fertile soil. As a result, its main industry is agriculture. Corn, soybeans, and wheat are globally exported from this region and serve as the main economy. On the other side of the spectrum, the desert southwestern region of the United States depends on the Central Arizona Project canals to transport water from the Colorado River in order to support agriculture and urban areas. Arizona’s right to use water from this river stems from the Colorado Compact, an agreement established in 1922.

Grades

3 - 12+

Subjects

Earth Science, Geology, Geography, Physical Geography, Chemistry